The arrival of the first sun-drenched afternoon of the season is a celebrated occasion for any homeowner with a swimming pool. Ensuring ample, comfortable seating is paramount, transforming the poolside into a sophisticated sanctuary for relaxation and socializing. Beyond the central water feature, a curated selection of accompanying furniture and décor is essential to elevate the entire experience and allow the pool to truly command attention.
When selecting poolside loungers, several criteria merit consideration. The design aesthetic is key; one might seek a chair with enhanced headrest cushioning, integrated cup holders, armrests, or an adjustable back for personalized comfort. For those sensitive to sun exposure, options with built-in shade offer a distinct advantage on particularly bright days. A crucial decision involves choosing between loungers designed for placement beside the pool or those intended for a sun shelf—a shallow, submerged ledge often referred to as a tanning ledge. While budget-friendly options exist, investing in pieces crafted from durable materials such as aluminum or teak ensures longevity and enduring style, promising a lifetime of enjoyment.
Further consideration for prospective buyers includes the chair’s design features, such as the presence of an extra-plush headrest, integrated cup holders, armrests, or an adjustable back for tailored comfort. Individuals susceptible to sunburn may find chairs with built-in shade particularly beneficial. The choice between poolside placement and submerged sun shelf models (also known as tanning ledges or ledge loungers) is another important factor. This selection focuses on elevated outdoor chaise lounge chairs specifically suited for the poolside environment.
Best Minimal Silhouette
Live Outer Wicker Outdoor Core Chaise Lounge
$1,850
The Live Outer chaise lounge features a patented cover designed to protect the furniture from inclement weather, with a convenient integrated storage slot for sunny days. Its water- and dirt-resistant textile is a significant functional asset, while the minimalist, sling-style design is elegantly accented with wicker, evoking modern coastal sophistication. For enhanced comfort without compromising the sleek profile, consider pairing it with an Outerweave cushion.
Best Grounded Design
Ellison Studios Stack Outdoor Chaise
$7,495
Designer Sarah Ellison consistently reinterprets indoor furniture aesthetics for outdoor spaces. The Stack Outdoor chaise exemplifies this, featuring a grounded teak base and subtle terracotta pinstripe upholstery that imparts a distinguished character. The rounded cushioning not only enhances comfort for extended periods of sunbathing or reading but also provides a supportive foundation.
A Side Table Combo
Article Toro Outdoor Chaise Lounge
$1,299
This chaise lounge incorporates a discreet side table, an invaluable feature for keeping essentials like books, beverages, or a laptop within easy reach. A notable design detail is its four recline positions, offering greater versatility than many similar models that typically provide only three.
A Japanese-Inspired Pick
Ceci Thompson Taiko Teak Outdoor Sun Lounger
$2,499 (originally $1,750)
The stained teak base of this chaise lounge is a work of art, distinguished by a slatted design inspired by Japanese joinery—a refined detail seldom found in standard pool lounge chairs. It offers three adjustable positions, and the fade-resistant Sunbrella cushions ensure enduring aesthetic appeal throughout the season, making it a worthwhile investment. Complementary pieces, including a lounge chair and loveseat, are available to create a cohesive outdoor ensemble.
For Small Spaces
Neighbor Terra Sun Lounger
$1,800
These stackable loungers offer a clever solution for maximizing space, allowing for effortless storage when not in use—a significant advantage for properties with limited outdoor area. The monochromatic taupe color palette presents a sophisticated and understated aesthetic that appeals to design aficionados.
Best for Sunbathing
Asifom Reclining Chaise Lounge (Set of 2)
$360
The gentle curve of these chairs provides exceptional comfort for extended relaxation. Constructed from polyethylene rattan (PE rattan), they are designed to withstand various weather conditions. With five recline angles, they offer superior adjustability compared to many similar designs.
More High-End Loungers
IKEA SEGERÖN Outdoor Chaise
$455 (originally $385)
The SEGERÖN lounger possesses a resort-like aesthetic, fitting seamlessly into luxurious settings. Its design ingeniously incorporates rear wheels as a stylistic element rather than concealing them. The five-position backrest ensures versatile comfort, while the rope-wrapped siding introduces an engaging textural contrast.
Birch Lane Jivera Reclining Chaise Lounge
$429
This comfortable lounger features a discreet pull-out side table integrated into its sturdy wood frame, perfect for holding reading material or a beverage. Equipped with water-resistant upholstery and stylish back wheels for easy repositioning to follow the sun, its solid color upholstery with contrast piping lends an elevated, stately presence to any patio.
Arhaus Surrey Outdoor Chaise
$2,800 (originally $1,960)
The Italian-made Surrey chaise by Arhaus features fade-resistant, anti-mildew, and eco-friendly upholstery options. While a solid-colored textile with contrast piping is available, the horizontal stripe in a navy-and-cream palette offers a particularly sophisticated and neutral choice for an elevated outdoor aesthetic.
Business & Pleasure Co. Waterhouse Sun Lounger
$2,598
This sun lounger from Anthropologie evokes Old Hollywood glamour with its gentle hairpin legs and butter yellow base. Subtle armrests provide just the right amount of support for transitioning, and the five recline positions ensure personalized comfort.
Peggy Outdoor Chaise by Sarah Sherman Samuel
$2,198
Designer Sarah Sherman Samuel’s Peggy outdoor chaise features an iron base with a distinctive, playful “squiggly” shape, maintaining an airy aesthetic. The quick-dry cushions, presented in a neutral hue, reflect Samuel’s signature restrained and edited style, balancing unique design with refined elegance.
West Elm Monterey Outdoor Teak Chaise Lounge
$1,349
The Monterey chaise lounge distinguishes itself with an integrated, retractable side table, offering practicality without disrupting the clean lines. Crafted from kiln-dried wood, this durable piece will naturally weather to a refined silver-gray patina over time, enhancing its timeless appeal.
West Elm Sorrento Outdoor Chaise Lounge
$949 (originally $650)
This wicker chaise lounge is an excellent choice for areas prone to frequent rain due to wicker’s inherent weather resistance. While it does not offer multiple recline positions, its ergonomic angle with a slight leg elevation provides inherent comfort. It is available in three colors and patterns.
Business Style Takeaway: Curating high-quality outdoor furniture is an extension of personal brand and a reflection of an elevated lifestyle. Investing in well-designed, durable pieces not only enhances the comfort and aesthetic of one’s private oasis but also signifies a commitment to lasting quality and refined taste in residential architecture and design.
According to the portal: www.architecturaldigest.com